Whispering Voices: Working 9 TO 5

I can't say I wasn't warned.  The wonderfully knowledgeable regulars on BWW's messageboards have always spoken of the perils of Broadway  - that magical place where it's reasonably likely that if you see four shows in three days, at least one of them will involve going to a theatre in a hotel and getting utterly lost in the process.

No matter. I made my way into the Marquis Theatre to see the just-opened 9 TO 5, and was so happy to find that there was impressively ample seat space, and leg room for those of us blessed in the height department.  I hid my secret thrill on receiving my first-ever copy of Playbill, and settled in for the show.

Along with all the other fabulous attractions I'm going to tick off my wishlist during this visit, I'm so happy that I can now say I've seen Megan Hilty (brilliantly astute in her ad libbing during a set malfunction) and Stephanie J Block (who reminded me of Ruthie Henshall for reasons I cannot establish).  And of course Allison Janney was great, with impeccable comic timing as always.  Immediately I was faced with one of the big differences between US and UK audiences - you wouldn't as a rule catch a London crowd applauding a performer as they walk on stage or sing their first line.  (I've only ever seen it happen with Ewan McGregor in Guys and Dolls, and then it was only a smattering, while everyone else tutted at such a breach of etiquette.)

The score sounded like a Dolly Parton album, as you'd probably expect.  I've not yet made a decision as to whether I think that's necessarily a good or a bad thing for a musical.  But it's definitely a fun night out if you can catch it.

It's been a long day as I type this, so time for sleep, ready for my double-show Sunday - Guys and Dolls as a matinee, and Shrek in the evening. There won't be enough time for much sight-seeing, so I hope you like the photo - me underneath a Broadway sign earlier today.  Goodnight!